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Operation Bojinka

Ramzi Yousef, Mastermind of Operation Bojinka.​

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MAKATI CITY, PHILIPPINES -- Catholic leader and influential world figure Pope John Paul II was assasinated this morning in a brazen attack on his motorcade as he celebrated World Youth Day in the country.​

Reports have put the death toll at seven, including the pontiff, and dozens wounded when a suicide bomber, dressed as a Catholic priest, detonated explosives as the motorcade stopped at a seminary in Makati City.​

Papal spokesman Joaquin Navarro-Valls announced the pope's death in a statement that urged "calm and cooperation" as the "investigation into the Holy Father's death" proceeded. Cardinal Giovanni Battista announced the pontiff's death to thousands in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, who had gathered in solidarity to honor John Paul II. "Dearest brothers and sisters....our beloved Father John Paul II has returned to the house of his Father. Let's pray for him," Battista said.​

President Bill Clinton pledged full support to the investigation in a brief meeting with reporters at the White House. "In speaking powerfully and eloquently for mercy and reconciliation to people divided by old hatreds and persecuted by abuse of power", Clinton said, "the Holy Father was a beacon of light not just for Catholics, but for all people."​

Pope John Paul II was 74.​

Filipino President Fidel Ramos asked for assistance as the magnitude of the investigation mounts. Streets in and out of Makati City remained closed well into the early morning hours as evidence is collected.​

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REUTERS | January 16th, 1995 | 1:17AM EST
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